Good medicine for the flu. The best remedy for the flu.

Pregnancy and children 11.11.2017
Pregnancy and children

The World Health Organization estimates that about 100 million people suffer from respiratory infections every year.

These diseases are especially dangerous for pregnant women and children under the age of 5 years. Therefore, medicines for flu and colds firmly hold the leading position in sales in the pharmacy chain.

The effectiveness of various pharmaceutical groups of drugs prescribed for acute respiratory viral infections largely depends on the pathogenesis of these infectious diseases.

In total, there are several phases of the course of pathology, these are:

  • The introduction of the pathogen into the epithelial cells of the nasal mucosa. Viruses simultaneously interact with several receptors on the membrane at once, while not only replication of microorganisms and “infection” of adjacent cells occurs, but also a kind of preparation of the epithelium for a further inflammatory process: enzymes are released, the permeability of the membranes of the vascular wall increases.
  • The entry of the pathogen into the systemic circulation, which is accompanied by the development of intoxication, with influenza, an inflammatory reaction occurs at the level of the vessels (endotheliosis), and in critical cases, a violation of microcirculatory hemodynamics is possible.
  • Determination of the localization of the inflammatory process (the lesion depends on the specific pathogen), for example, with a predominance of pain and sore throat or symptoms of acute rhinitis.
  • Resolution of the disease (recovery or bacterial complications).

Such a division of the course of the disease is very conditional. So, with a sufficiently strong immunity, the pathology can stop even at the first stage. Due to the effective response, the virus is simply rejected and dies, in which case flu and cold medicines may not be needed at all.

But most often the clinical picture develops very sharply, and the achievements of modern pharmacology will help alleviate the main symptoms of the disease, reduce the duration of the inflammatory process and reduce the risk of various complications, which is especially important in severe viral infections.

All medicines for colds and flu can be divided into several groups:

  1. Drugs to fight infection in the pharynx. Majority modern means usually contain a combination of active ingredients. Some have an antiseptic and antimicrobial effect, others act directly on the unpleasant manifestations of the disease - pain that worsens when swallowing, burning and perspiration.
  2. Medicines for local, intranasal use. First of all, these are vasoconstrictor nasal drops. They do not have any therapeutic effect, but are effective in eliminating edema and the intensity of mucus secretion. Decongestants of the latest generation are characterized by a long action, they can be used 2-3 times a day. Doctors note that such drugs are more often prescribed in our country, while abroad they prefer antihistamines in the form of tablets or syrups (for the treatment of children). Drops have a therapeutic effect on plant-based highly concentrated essential oils from medicinal herbs. Homeopathic sprays also have a good therapeutic effect.
  3. Antipyretics. For this purpose, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used. For adults, tablets and fast-acting water-soluble powders are shown; in children, it is better to use syrups and rectal suppositories.
  4. Antitussive drugs. Often the viral infection is not limited to the lesion of the upper section respiratory system. Due to the similarity in the structure of the mucosal epithelium in inflammatory process bronchi may be involved. A similar picture is accompanied by a strong "chest" cough, which is caused by the accumulation of a large amount of sputum, which causes irritation of the receptors of the respiratory tract. To facilitate the discharge of mucus, expectorants are indicated. But they are not very effective for reflex cough that occurs due to the effect of mucus on the epithelium of the nasopharynx. In this case, agents are needed that depress the central cough reflex and soften the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx.
  5. Medications to relieve symptoms of comorbidities. According to infectious disease specialists, there is no person who has not been infected with herpes. In some people, this disease is asymptomatic, in others it makes itself felt in the form of a rash (usually it appears on the border of the lips or on the mucous membranes) with the slightest weakening of the immune system. Therefore, in addition to the use of any medicine for flu and colds, ointments and creams against herpes infection are often necessary.

We should not forget about immunostimulating therapy. For example, quite budgetary Interferon will help prevent the development of the disease. However, it is effective only if used in the first hours after the appearance. clinical symptoms SARS. There is a lot of controversy regarding the prescription of antiviral drugs for flu and colds. Most pediatricians are against the unjustified use of this group of medicines in the first days of the disease, giving the child's immune system the opportunity to cope with the virus on its own.

Other doctors believe that their appointment is mandatory for influenza and severe acute respiratory viral infections, since the immature reaction of cellular immunity in early age contributes to the rapid development of bacterial complications.

Be that as it may, the doctor should decide on the advisability of taking antiviral drugs. special attention deserves the question of the use of antimicrobial medicines for flu and colds. The fact is that a virus and a bacterium are completely different microorganisms, and it is necessary to fight them radically. various methods. Therefore, antibiotics for ARVI, unlike, for example, tonsillitis, are ineffective, they are prescribed for bacterial complications of a viral infection. Their development is confirmed not only by the clinical picture, but also by the results of a blood test.

Important

Self-administration of antibiotics for SARS is unacceptable. This can lead to an even greater weakening of the immune system and a deterioration in the patient's condition.

It is very difficult to name the best cold and flu medicines. Expensive imported drugs are not always more effective than cheap Russian counterparts. results clinical trials similar medications are also sometimes indicative. Therefore, in the vast majority of cases, doctor's prescriptions are based on their own experience in using this or that medicine for colds and flu.

Pills for flu and colds: which forms of release are better, a list of basic antiviral drugs

A pharmacist for the treatment of SARS can recommend medications in the form of a powder soluble in boiling water, regular pills and effervescent tablets for flu and colds. To determine which is more effective, you should understand the basis of the distribution of drugs in the human body.

First of all, any medications enter the digestive tract, from where they are absorbed through the wall of the stomach or intestines and enter the systemic circulation. Naturally, it takes a certain time to dissolve the tablet shell and release the active substance, usually at least 20 minutes. Water-soluble preparations work much faster. In addition, a hot drink also has a warming effect, which is especially true for chills caused by fever.

However, in childhood, for the treatment of viral diseases, all drugs are used either in the form of rectal suppositories or syrups. A variety of teas and instant tablets for flu and colds are contraindicated at least up to 7-8 years.

As for antiviral drugs, compared to the same antibiotics and medicines for the symptomatic treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, their list is rather short. And given the rapid development of the influenza virus and its propensity for various mutations, the development of new drugs to combat this disease is a paramount task of pharmaceutical science.

Currently, several groups of tablets are used for flu and colds with antiviral action:

  1. Derivatives of adamantane. The brightest and most famous representative of this group of drugs is Remantadine. It was approved for use in 1975. The disadvantages of this tool include the narrow specificity of action. It is effective only against the type A influenza virus, without any effect on other strains of the microorganism. Moreover, according to recent studies, the mutation of this pathogen has led to the development of its resistance to Remantadine. So, in 2009, it was proved that the influenza A virus (H1N1 varieties) is 100% resistant to the action of this drug.
  2. Neuraminidase inhibitors. It's perfect new type drugs that block a specific enzyme that allows viruses to enter human cells. In 1995, the first drug of this group, Zanamivir, appeared. However, this drug has an extremely low oral bioavailability, so it was introduced into the respiratory tract using an inhaler or intranasal aerosol. The first oral neuraminidase inhibitor, oseltamivir (Tamiflu), was introduced in 1999. But this drug has the greatest activity only in first 2-3 days of illness. And most patients seek medical care closer to 4-5 day flu, when it becomes apparent that conventional antipyretic drugs do not give any effect. Reception of Tamiflu for prophylactic purposes is limited high risk adverse reactions, against the background of its use, nausea, diarrhea and abdominal pain often occur. Relatively recently, only in 2009, American scientists launched a new effective medicine to fight influenza - Peramivir.

Doctors recommend interferon preparations and interferon inducers as immunomodulatory agents for the treatment and prevention of viral infection. As for the “pure” interferon (from the point of view of medical terminology, it is correct to call human leukocyte interferon alpha), it is effective only if it is started in the first hours after the onset of symptoms of the disease.

This is due to the fact that the drug is used topically in the form of drops or inhalation, and the reproduction of the influenza virus in the nasal cavity takes from 12 hours to 3 days, after which it enters the systemic circulation, and local exposure to Interferon will not have any effect on it. Much more effective are flu and cold pills from the group of interferon inducers. In addition to immunomodulatory activity, they also have a pronounced antiviral effect.

Therefore, they can be used not only for the treatment of SARS, but also for its prevention during the epidemic. So, the drug Cycloferon is one of the strongest inducers of interferon.

With increased susceptibility to viral infections, doctors recommend taking it in courses from the end of October to April.

These flu and cold pills are very effective both when the first clinical signs of nasopharyngeal damage appear, and in the acute period. Another drug with a similar effect is Amiksin. It inhibits virus replication at the level of pathogen DNA and stimulates the production of its own interferons α, β and γ types, actively influencing the process of developing immunity against influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections.

In practice, doctors combine flu and cold pills with different mechanisms of action. So, at the first stage, it is recommended to take interferons, since they are able to stop the replication of pathogenic flora. But in the future, with the development of the disease, antiviral drugs with a wide spectrum of activity and interferon inducers.

Thus, there is a direct effect on the virus and stimulation of a person's own immunity. In the process of treating ARVI, drugs to eliminate the symptoms of pathology play a huge role. Almost all such infections are accompanied by severe fever, headaches and muscle pain, discomfort in the nasopharynx, runny nose.

Therefore, in parallel with the main drugs that affect the development of the virus, the following drugs are mandatory:

  • Antigrippin, effervescent soluble tablets for flu and colds, contain paracetamol, chlorphenamine and ascorbic acid.
  • Coldrex. It is produced in the form of a powder for preparing a hot drink (the Hot Rem form contains various flavoring additives), has a pronounced antipyretic effect due to paracetamol, immunostimulating due to the presence of ascorbic acid in the composition, and phenylephrine effectively eliminates swelling of the nasal cavity. Coldrex flu and cold tablets, in addition to the listed components, also contain caffeine and terpinhydrate. The latter dilutes sputum in the bronchi and promotes its active excretion.

But doctors emphasize that such drugs can only relieve symptoms for a while. viral disease. Their therapeutic effect is extremely low and is based only on the anti-inflammatory activity of paracetamol and ascorbic acid that strengthens the immune system. Perhaps this will be enough to treat the common cold or SARS, but antiviral agents are needed to treat the flu.

Flu Remedies for Children and Pregnant Women

The list of drugs that can be safely used during childbearing and at an early age is extremely limited.

Doctors recommend using traditional medicine for a mild cold. These are rose hips, gargling with decoctions of herbs (calendula, chamomile), inhalations with eucalyptus leaves.

Starting from 1 month, you can use such flu remedies for children as Anaferon. The drug is available in the form of tablets, they can be crushed into powder and poured into the mouth. An older child can simply keep it in his mouth until completely dissolved. To eliminate the common cold at an early age, Xylometazoline is allowed in the form of a 0.05% solution (Otrivin), it can be used from birth. As an antipyretic for influenza for children, Nurofen or Efferalgan in the form of rectal suppositories is suitable.

Important

Treatment of influenza in a small child is carried out only in a hospital under the constant supervision of a doctor.

In this situation, it comes to the fore preventive actions. This is drinking plenty of water, maintaining an appropriate level of humidity in the room, frequent walks in the fresh air, timely cleaning and processing of children's toys. At a later age, an interferon solution can be used as a prophylactic against influenza for children (it is instilled into nose 2-3 times a day).

Severe SARS are extremely dangerous during pregnancy. The body of a woman during this period is very susceptible to the action of various viruses, especially the flu, it can even lead to irreversible malformations of the fetus at any time.

Given this fact, the severe course of the disease is an indication for the appointment of special drugs. For the treatment of influenza during pregnancy in Russia, Oseltamivir, Zanamivir, Arbidol and Grippferon are allowed in a standard dosage. Starting from the II trimester, you can use Viferon. To eliminate the symptoms, antipyretics and vasoconstrictor drugs are indicated.

The best drug for flu and colds, drug prevention

One of the most effective means for the symptomatic treatment of SARS is Grippostad. The drug is available in the form of a powder for preparing a hot drink, capsules and nasal drops. The powder contains a large dose of paracetamol (an antipyretic component) and ascorbic acid (an immunostimulant).

The main ingredient of Grippostadarino for topical application is xylometazoline, this substance has a vasoconstrictive effect and is characterized by a long-lasting effect. The best drug for flu and colds Grippostad C affect several symptoms of the disease at once. Paracetamol relieves fever, vitamin C activates the body's defenses, caffeine eliminates headaches and weakness, chlorphenamine has a decongestant effect, easing sneezing and symptoms of rhinitis. As antiviral therapy you can use Ingavirin, the advantage of the drug is its anti-inflammatory activity.

Also of interest are the drugs Anaferon and Ergoferon. Anaferon is preferable to prescribe as a prophylactic agent during the SARS epidemic, while the best drug for flu and colds, Ergoferon, has a depressing effect on the causative agent of the disease, especially when taken after the onset of symptoms.

Another "flu" wave covered Russia. It is easier to catch an infection by inhaling droplets of saliva and mucus from a person who has sneezed next to you or by holding a handrail on a bus. And the advertised means for the prevention and treatment of influenza are now very expensive. And not everyone knows that there are effective inexpensive analogues of expensive drugs with the same active substance.

We present to you top 7 inexpensive flu medicines which are sold in most pharmacies. Just do not forget to consult a doctor, each remedy has contraindications. The price of drugs is indicated on the basis of data from medical portals.

7. Tablets "Echinacea"

Price: from 111 rubles.

Dear analogue:"Immunal".

Echinacea is used to support immunity in case of flu, colds, physical and mental overwork, infections and inflammations of the nasopharynx and oral cavity. Replaces "Immunal", in which the active ingredient is echinacea.

6. Powder "Interferon"

Price: from 81 rubles.

Dear analogue:"Grippferon".

Drops for the prevention of influenza and colds. They do not penetrate inside the body, they are distributed along the nasal mucosa and are an obstacle to viruses. An analogue of "Grippferon" with the active substance interferon alfa-2b.

5. Tablets "Paracetamol" and "Vitamin C"

Price: from 8 and 183 rubles, respectively.

Dear analogue: Antigrippin, Teraflu.

The combination of "Paracetamol" and vitamin C helps with the initial signs of colds and flu no worse than expensive powders. First you need to drink 1 tablet of "Paracetamol" (500 mg), and after 5-10 minutes - dissolve 1/3 of the effervescent tablet "Vitamin C" in a glass of warm water. An analogue of Antigrippin with the following active ingredients: paracetamol, chlorphenamine maleate and ascorbic acid and Teraflu, which also includes paracetamol, ascorbic acid, phenylephrine hydrochloride and pheniramine maleate.

4. Tablets "Ibuprofen"

Price: from 17 rubles.

Dear analogue:"Nurofen".

Taken as an anti-inflammatory agent (affects only the signs, not the cause of inflammation). The drug helps to reduce headache and muscle pain and lowers the temperature. It is a replacement for Nurofen with the active ingredient ibuprofen.

3. Tablets "Paracetamol"

Price: from 3 rubles.

Dear analogue:"Panadol".

An effective antipyretic, vasoconstrictor and pain reliever. An expensive analogue of these tablets is Panadol with the active ingredient paracetamol.

2. Tablets "Ambroxol"

Price: from 52 rubles.

Dear analogue:"Lazolvan".

Stimulates the expectoration of sputum during wet and dry coughs. It helps not only with influenza, but also with acute and chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, bronchiectasis and bronchial asthma. If you have been prescribed an expensive "Lazolvan" with the active ingredient Ambroxol, replace it with "Ambroxol" and do not cough.

1. Tablets "Rimantadine"

Price: from 67 rubles.

Dear analogue:"Remantadin".

This antiviral medicine is an analogue of the popular and time-tested "Remantadine" with the same active ingredient. It is most effective in the first "flu" days and is suitable for children over 7 years old, and for adults.

Whatever drug the doctor recommends to you, remember that carrying the flu on your feet is not only unethical in relation to others (the patient can infect a dozen more people), but also bad for the body. The risk of complications increases, and being sick for a long time these days is too expensive a displeasure.

In contact with

Not a single cold season is complete without a banal cold and flu. We spend money on expensive medicines, trying to quickly get rid of all the unpleasant symptoms, forgetting about effective and inexpensive medicines. Meanwhile, there are cold pills that are several times cheaper than advertised analogues. The main thing is to understand the mechanism of action of drugs, use them competently and purposefully.

What pills to take for flu and colds

Medicines that help to cope with colds, SARS, acute respiratory infections, flu, are divided into two groups. The first of them is intended for symptomatic treatment. Cold tablets of this group have antipyretic (aspirin), antihistamine (dibazole), analgesic, vasoconstrictive, sputum thinning (acc) action, fight the following manifestations of the disease:

  • nasal congestion;
  • fever;
  • lacrimation;
  • muscle pain;
  • swelling of mucous membranes.

The second group of drugs affects the immune system and the causative agent of the disease. They are prescribed only if the viral nature of the common cold is detected. Tools in this category include:

  • interferon inducers;
  • viral protein blockers;
  • neuraminidase inhibitors.

Antivirals

Antiviral cold medicines are not antibiotics. Their task is not to destroy the pathogen, but to destroy its protein shell, which blocks the development of the virus in the body. Antibiotics for colds are prescribed only when bacterial complications occur. Popular effective antiviral drugs:

  1. "Tamiflu" is a drug based on oseltamivir (azintomivir, aziltomyrin). Suitable for adult and child.
  2. "Grippferon" is a complex drug based on interferon alfa-2b.
  3. "Relenza". The main active ingredient of the drug is zanamivir. It is prescribed for the treatment of influenza A, B.
  4. "Ingavirin" is an effective medicine for swine flu, SARS.
  5. "Amixin". The analogue of the drug is Tiloron, Lavomax.
  6. Arbidol is a drug for the treatment of influenza A, B, subtypes H1N1, H2N2, H3N2 and H5N1.
  7. Acyclovir is an antiviral drug based on thymidine nucleoside.
  8. "Cycloferon" is a medicine containing methylglucamine acridone acetate.


Immunomodulators

This type of medicine includes homeopathic and synthetic medicines. For colds, thymus preparations, interferons, cytokines are prescribed:

  • "Imunofan";
  • "Betaleikin";
  • "Timogen";
  • "Amixin";
  • "Aflubin";
  • "Roncoleukin";
  • "Kipferon;
  • "Ribomunil";
  • "Bronchomunal";
  • "Pyrogenal";
  • "Galavit";
  • "Diucyphon".

It should be remembered that it is impossible to take synthetic immunity modulators on your own. When prescribing them, the doctor necessarily takes into account the age of the patient, the degree of weakening of the body's defenses, the variety of the disease. In some cases, immunity stimulation is limited to taking vitamins or medications. natural origin(tincture of echinacea, eleutherococcus, ginger, lungwort, chicory, etc.).


List of the best drugs for the treatment of colds in adults and children

Modern combined cold medicines for simultaneous symptomatic treatment:

  • "Anaferon";
  • "Arbidol";
  • "Baralgetas";
  • "Antigrippin";
  • "Grammidin";
  • "Coldrex";
  • "Kagocel";
  • "Remantadin";
  • "Rinza";
  • "Rinicold";
  • "Sinupret";

Tablets to help quickly get rid of a cough:

  • "Butamirat";
  • "Glaucin";
  • "Mukaltin";
  • "Dextromethorphan";
  • "Levodropropizin";
  • "Prenoxdiazine".

For sore throat:

  • Strepsils;
  • "Trachisan";
  • "Linkas";
  • "Grammidin";
  • "Septefril";
  • "Faringosept";
  • "Lisobakt".

Homeopathic preparations:

  • "Oscillococcinum";
  • "Aflubin";
  • "Engistol";
  • "Aconite".


What can pregnant and lactating mothers drink

Antiviral drugs for ARVI are mostly contraindicated during pregnancy, feeding newborns, so the main task of women is the prevention of colds. If it was not possible to protect yourself from the disease, then you have to choose safe medicines that help bring down the high temperature, cope with the cough, and give an anti-inflammatory effect. Paracetamol is best for fever. This medicine has both antipyretic and analgesic effects. Analogues of "Paracetamol" - "Panadol", "Efferalgan".

Safe (according to the instructions!) For pregnant and lactating mothers, medicines for sore throats will be tablets based on lysozyme (a natural enzyme) - "Laripront", "Lizobakt". Tablets for a cold accompanied by a strong cough will be Lazolvan, ACC (powder), Coldrex broncho (syrup). Homeopathic Oscillococcinum, Anaferon, Aflubin are also allowed. In any case, the medication must be coordinated with the doctor, who will make the final verdict in favor of or prohibition of any medication.


What medicines are inexpensive, but effective for the prevention of colds

Pharmaceutical companies offer a huge range of cold tablets, which are easy to find cheap analogues. So, for example, the composition of most combination drugs for symptomatic treatment includes paracetamol, which tops the rating of cold pills. You can take it already at the beginning of the disease. Fast-acting effervescent aspirin will successfully replace inexpensive acetylsalicylic acid, and interferon, which is part of antiviral drugs, is easy to find in pharmacies as an independent medicine for the prevention of influenza.

For this purpose, it is worth using oxolinic ointment, an inexpensive tincture of Eleutherococcus or Rhodiola rosea, ascorbic acid. The expensive Immunal will be replaced by echinacea tincture, Nurofen - Ibuprofen, Lazolvan and Ambrobene - Ambroxol, Mukaltin, cough tablets. Gargling with furacilin tablets will help like Strepsils or Grammidin.

Feedback on the results after application

Marina, 30 years old: I simply don’t know a better medicine for acute respiratory infections than the powerful Cycloferon. Works great with viral infection in five or six days! I bought the notorious Coldrex, Theraflu and other newfangled drugs, but paracetamol is much more effective and cheaper! I recommend everyone to take our domestic analogues of expensive imported tablets and not overpay money in vain.

Irina, 36 years old: I caught a cold once at a conference where I had to make a presentation. Runny nose, fever - just a nightmare. I asked the pharmacy to choose something effective, they advised me to "Rinicold". I drank a pill at night, and then in the morning. All symptoms disappeared! It was easy to perform, in the photo the nose was not red. So the pills are excellent, but you need to drink them according to the scheme, every 4 hours.

Dmitry, 56 years old: Do not buy expensive imported pills for colds. Instead, take a package of paracetamol, echinacea and ascorbic acid from the pharmacy. As times they and are part of any koldaktov. In order not to get sick, use oxolinic ointment and interferon, and drink aspirin from the temperature. Do not be tempted by fashionable names, at the first sign of inflammation, drink Ibuprofen and Paracetamol.

Inexpensive but effective antiviral drugs for adults: a list of cheap remedies

Antiviral agents for SARS are the best medicines for adults, using which you can alleviate the symptoms of colds.

All doctors insist that during the spread of viral infections, it is necessary to carry out prevention, and not wait until the flu or tonsillitis appears.

The most effective preventive measure in winter and autumn is to stimulate the protective functions of the body. Good immunity will not allow pathogens to provoke the disease, or at least avoid the complications that are increasingly developing against the background of colds.

When the disease is caused by viruses - SARS, then treatment should be carried out without fail. The best solution in this case are effective antiviral drugs. Their principle of action is to influence the etiological factor, that is, the virus.

As a rule, antiviral drugs are used for influenza and SARS. Anti-inflammatory pills a wide range actions affect the replication of the virus, stopping its reproduction.

Anti-influenza drugs can have a natural or synthetic basis. They are used not only in the treatment of SARS or influenza, but also for preventive purposes.

Such a best medicine can be used in the treatment of different stages of a cold. Today, more than 500 pathogens of various types of colds are known to medicine. Therefore, the choice of funds to help overcome the disease is also quite extensive.

As a rule, viral diseases are treated with three groups of drugs:

  1. Broad-spectrum anti-influenza agents.
  2. Drugs that fight cytomegalovirus.
  3. Medicines that treat herpes infection.

If the disease has become severe, then it is necessary to take antiviral tablets, and mild stages can be treated with interferons.

Within 24-32 hours after the onset of the initial manifestations, it is important to quickly start taking antiviral agent.

If the reproduction of the virus is not stopped in time, then it will flood the entire body.

In this case, antiviral pills will be ineffective in their effectiveness.

What is the effect of antiviral drugs in ARVI?

Antiviral drugs for colds eliminate the factors of occurrence and its development. So, the result of the action of such funds is:

  • reducing the risk of exacerbations in chronic diseases (asthma, bronchitis, etc.);
  • relief of painful manifestations, a decrease in the duration of the course of acute respiratory viral infections for a couple of days;
  • reducing the risk of complications.

Antiviral drugs for influenza are used as emergency preventive care if someone close to you is sick and it is necessary to reduce the risk of infection.

Antiviral tablets for SARS

In the category in which synthetic antiviral drugs that effectively fight viruses are located, there are 2 groups of effective drugs. The principle of operation of M-channel blockers is to prevent the virus from entering the cells and multiplying there.

A good remedy in this category is Rimantandin (Remantadin) and Amantadine (Midantan). To obtain the necessary effectiveness, treatment must begin when the first symptoms of the disease appear. However, their disadvantage is that it is difficult to determine which type of virus has infected a person.

Doctors prescribe such antiviral agents during an epidemic of influenza A. Moreover, swine and bird flu resistant to them. It should be remembered that cold pills it is necessary to take not only for the sick person, but also for the people who are next to him.

Neuraminidase inhibitors actively fight influenza B and A viruses. Their action is based on the suppression of the enzyme responsible for the spread of the virus.

Medicines belonging to this group are Zanamivir (Relenza) and Oseltamivir (Tamiflu). Reception of such funds should be started in the first two days after the onset of the primary symptoms of SARS.

The list of anti-cold drugs includes:

  1. Cycloferon;
  2. Tamiflu;
  3. Relenza;
  4. Ribavirin;
  5. Grippferon;
  6. Arbidol;
  7. Anaferon;
  8. Viferon;
  9. Amiksin;
  10. Kagocel;
  11. Viferon;
  12. Remantadin.

Zanamivir

This antiviral medicine is prescribed for adults and children from 5 years of age with influenza. Inhalations should be done twice a day, 5 mg for 5 days. So, the total daily dosage is 10 mg.

The agent should not be combined with other inhalation mixtures, including bronchodilators, due to the fact that exacerbations may occur with bronchial asthma and other nonspecific lung diseases. In some people who do not have lung disease, sometimes there is irritation of the nasopharynx, which occasionally leads to bronchospasm.

For the treatment of adults and children from 12 years of age, the doctor may prescribe the antiviral drug Oseltamivir. The recommended daily dose is 75 mg, which should be divided into two doses. Tablets should be taken for five days.

In addition, the remedy can be prescribed to a child from 1 year old, provided that his body weight is not less than 15 kg. So, if the weight is 15 kg, then the dose is 30 mg, up to 23 kg - 45 mg, up to 40 kg - 60 mg and more than 40 kg - 75 mg. Capsules should be taken twice a day for 5 days.

However, people with kidney failure should take this remedy with extreme caution, because it can cause nausea and vomiting, so first you need to carefully study the instructions on what to drink with a cold and how.

In addition, the doctor may prescribe inexpensive antiviral drugs, including broad-spectrum Pranobex (Groprinosin) and Ribavirin (Ribarin).

Ribavirin

This antiviral drug acts on influenza viruses B and A. In addition, it is effective against rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, SARS, respiratory syncytial virus and parainfluenza.

But this remedy is quite toxic, for these reasons it is prescribed only when a respiratory syncytial infection is confirmed. Often it becomes the cause of bronchiolitis in children.

Ribavirin - good remedy new generation, the price of which is quite high. It is used for the treatment of colds in adults 4 times a day, 200 mg for 1 week. But with hemolytic anemia, renal failure and pregnancy, Ribavirin is prohibited.

Inosine pranobex

Anti-cold tablets Inosine Pranobex of the new generation are effective for:

  • adenoviruses;
  • flu
  • rhinoviruses;
  • parainfluenza.

This anti-cold medicine stimulates the immune system. To cure influenza and other viral infections in adults, Inosine Pranobex should be taken 4 times a day, 2 tablets for one week. For children, the daily rate should not exceed 50 mg per 1 kg of body weight.

The drug is taken up to 4 times a day through same time. The duration of therapy is from 5 to 7 days.

Interferons and interferon inducers

These antiviral agents are protein elements synthesized by the body in response to an infection, thereby developing resistance to viruses. Interferons are in no way inferior to narrowly targeted groups of drugs in terms of effectiveness. They have a wide spectrum of activity, making them top of the list among other synthetic anti-flu agents.

However, some doctors are convinced that this group of drugs is ineffective in ARVI. These antiviral drugs for colds can be prescribed in the form of rectal suppositories and nasal drops.

So, native leukocyte interferon should be instilled into the nose up to 6 times a day, and Reaferon 2 drops 4 times a day. Basically, Viferon is prescribed in the form of candles, and adults are prescribed Viferon 3 or 4.

Regarding interferon inductors, they are a kind of stimulator for the production of interferons by the body. For a cold, the doctor may prescribe Meglumine acridone acetate (Cycloferon), Tiloron (Amixin) and other antiviral tablets.

Amiksin

To cure acute respiratory infections and influenza, you should take Amiksin, a new generation drug, the price of which is quite low.

This remedy should be taken orally after meals. The dose for adults is 0.125 g, and for children from 7 years old - 0.06 g. Tablets are drunk on the first day of illness, and then every other day.

The duration of therapy involves taking 6 tablets. However, Amiksin should not be taken by children under 7 years of age and pregnant women.

Cycloferon

Cycloferon tablets are similar in their effectiveness to Amiksin. They are used in the treatment of acute respiratory infections and influenza.

Often the drug is used as a solution (12.5%) for intramuscular injections of 2 ml for two days. After that, injections are given every other day, or tablets (0.15 g) are taken for 20 days.

Kagocel

It is an interferon inducer that has an immunomodulatory and antiviral effect.

As a rule, the drug is prescribed for colds three times a day, 2 tablets. In the first two days of treatment, the daily dosage should be 72 mg.

After the medicine should be taken three times a day, 1 tablet (36 mg). For 4 days of treatment, the patient drinks about 18 tablets.

The most inexpensive drug that is effective for viruses A and B, adenoviruses, parainfluenza and syncytial infections. The principle of action of the drug is to stimulate the synthesis endogenous interferon. Arbidol helps to strengthen the immune system and has an antioxidant effect.

If there are no complications with a cold, the medicine can be prescribed to children and adults:

  1. 3-6 years - 50 mg;
  2. 6-12 years - 100 mg;
  3. After 12 years - 200 mg.

Arbidol should be taken for 5 days four times a day every 6 hours. After that, the medicine is drunk 1 time in 7 days for a month.

Inexpensive antiviral agent, which is an inducer of endogenous interferon. It has anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antiviral effects.

Adults Amizon should be taken after meals up to 4 times a day for moderate acute respiratory infections and influenza, 0.25 g each, and for severe forms of the disease, 0.5 g per week. The dose for children under 12 years of age is 0.125 g three times a day for 5 days.

Anaferon

It is a homeopathic preparation that has an immunomodulatory and antiviral effect. In addition, it is used in the treatment of influenza and SARS. Adults need to take 1 tablet up to 6 times daily.

Treatment with Anaferon should be started at the first respiratory manifestations. When the patient's condition improves, the drug is taken 1 time per day for 10 days.

Children from 0.5 to 3 years old should dissolve one tablet in 15 ml of water and then drink. For preventive purposes, Anaferon is prescribed 1 tablet 1 time per day, in for 1-3 months. Plus, it's pretty cheap.

Grippferon

A drug for intranasal use that has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The duration of the therapeutic course and dosage are determined by the attending physician.

At the age of 14 years, the daily dose is 2 drops (100 IU) five times a day. An adult should take Grippferon up to 6 times a day, 3 drops (1500 IU). The duration of the treatment course is five days.

Herbal antivirals are inexpensive

Many medicinal plants have anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. Often, herbal remedies help fight herpes infection.

Very often, a cold is accompanied by herpes. Moreover, the course of cytomegalovirus infection is often accompanied by the same symptoms as with ARVI.

The list of drugs that fight viruses and infections includes Alpizarin. It contains an extract of mango leaves, yellowing kopek and alpine kopek.

In addition, a good medicine based on natural ingredients is Flacoside. The active substance of the drug is obtained from Laval velvet and Amur velvet.

Externally, you can apply ointments such as:

  • Gossypol (the active substance is obtained by processing the cotton root or cotton seeds).
  • Helepin (the active ingredient is the leaves of lespedeza koppechkova).
  • Megosin (cotton oil).

In addition, natural antiviral drugs for colds include in their list such drugs as Altabor (based on the seedlings of sticky and gray alder) and Proteflazid (an extract of the ground part of the reed and soddy pike). These funds are actively used for preventive and therapeutic purposes for influenza and other colds.

Another immunomodulatory and antiviral effect is provided by a drug from a German manufacturer - Imupret. This remedy contains oak bark, leaves walnut and field horsetail. What is a rational approach to the treatment of SARS, and how to use drugs - in the form of this article.

Inexpensive cold medicines

Antiviral drugs are often used for colds. Not everyone has the opportunity to buy an expensive medicine, so the question arises of what inexpensive means can be quickly cured. A frugal person knows that it is easier to prevent a disease than to cure it. At the peak of colds, it is necessary to activate the immune system.

The effect of antiviral drugs on the body

ARVI is best treated with an antiviral drug, it stops the reproduction of the virus, prevents it from aggravating. There are two groups of drugs - synthetic and natural. They can be used for treatment and prophylaxis. Pharmacology has developed three main groups of drugs to fight viruses:

  • Flu drugs.
  • Medicines for herpes infection.
  • Drugs for cytomegalovirus.

All of them have a different cost, a lot depends on the manufacturer. The same drug may have a different price. For example, one that is produced abroad will cost more, a domestic drug with the same composition is always cheaper. Please note that anti-cold drugs are effective only at the beginning of the disease. When the virus has already managed to completely populate the entire body, the antiviral drug will no longer help.

The drug eliminates the cause of the onset and development of SARS, with the help of it you can:

  • Protect yourself from further exacerbation of a chronic disease (tonsillitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, rhinitis, sinusitis, sinusitis, etc.).
  • Reduce the duration of a cold, relieve symptoms. After taking the person recovers after 2 days.
  • Reduces the risk of severe complications of SARS.
  • Protects from infection. The drug is used as a prophylactic drug. If one of the family members falls ill, it is imperative to take the medicine, so you can protect yourself from SARS.

Inexpensive cold pills

Proven synthetic drugs are Rimantadine and Amantadine. To increase efficiency, you need to take them at the first symptoms of the disease. Please note that they are more suitable for the influenza A virus, and when a person becomes ill, he cannot independently find out what kind of virus he has.

Inexpensive and effective cold remedies include neuraminidase inhibitors, they help with influenza viruses B, A. They completely destroy enzymes and stop the activity of the virus. This group of drugs includes Tamiflu, Grippferon, Relenza, Kagocel, Amiksin, Anaferon, Arbidol, Viferon, Amizon.

Anti-cold diseases of plant origin

The inexpensive group includes drugs that contain herbs. They are recommended to be used when cold sores are observed. We can distinguish such antiviral herbal preparations:

  • Alpizarin in its composition it has mango leaves, yellowing kopeck, alpine kopeck.
  • Flacoside consists of Amur velvet and Laval.
  • Megozin ointment used externally, it contains cottonseed oil.
  • Helepin ointment consists of the ground part of the penny lespedeza.
  • gossypol ointment in its composition has a cotton root and cotton seeds.
  • Altabor- an effective anti-cold drug. It contains black and gray alder.
  • Proteflazid suitable for the treatment of flu, colds. It contains ground reed grass, soddy pike.
  • Imupret is an expensive German drug. It consists of an extract of oak bark, horsetail and walnut leaves.

Prices for cold medicines

The cost of all medicines is different. It is best to pay attention to efficiency and safety. You can save money first, and then treat the consequences after taking the drugs. Without a doctor, you do not need to prescribe drugs yourself.

Inexpensive antiviral drugs include Amiksin, Anaferon, Amizon. You can first buy a plate with 10 tablets, check your reaction and the effect of the drug, if everything is fine, you can continue treatment with this remedy.

Please note that the opposite colds they eliminate not the symptoms of a cold, but the cause of its occurrence, therefore they are effective. With their help, you can reduce the disease.

Inexpensive cold medicines to relieve symptoms

To speed up recovery, it is necessary to pay attention to all failures in the body. When your throat hurts, you can prepare a soda-salt solution at home and constantly gargle with it. Inflammation from the throat will help remove the tincture of calendula, eucalyptus. It is necessary to take 200 ml of warm water, dilute a tablespoon of tincture in it. Rinse every 3 hours.

To relieve the condition with a sore throat, such inexpensive drugs will help:

  • Septefril- an antiseptic drug, it is used to treat pharyngitis, tonsillitis, stomatitis.
  • Chlorophylipt contains extracts from eucalyptus. The drug anesthetizes, removes purulent plugs from the tonsils. Available in the form of an oil and alcohol solution, also in the form of a spray.
  • streptocide It is advised to use with a severely inflamed throat. Efficiency increases if Streptocid powder is mixed with honey.
  • Miramistin solution has an antiseptic effect, helps with colds to get rid of inflammation in the throat.

If nasal congestion is observed, you can use such inexpensive nasal drops Sanorin, Naphthyzin, Farmazolin, Pinosol, Galazolin for several days. Softens the nasal mucosa with eucalyptus and mint oil. Constantly rinse your nose with saline solution, so you will quickly clear the mucous from the virus.

When a cold is accompanied by a high fever, it is necessary to use antipyretic drugs. Inexpensive drugs include Acetylsalicylic acid, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen.

So, in order not to have to spend money on cold medicines, keep an eye on your immune system. Constantly strengthen your body, temper it, play sports, eat right and move as much as possible!

Antiviral drugs for colds

Treatment of such an ailment as a cold involves the use of a number of measures to reduce temperature and reduce inflammation. However, if the disease is viral in nature, then there is a possibility of developing complications, because the patient is prescribed antiviral drugs for colds, which have a direct effect on the particle that infects the body.

Antiviral drugs for colds - a list

Taking these drugs helps to strengthen the immune system and prevent the occurrence of complications. They are recommended to be taken as a prevention of many diseases. With a cold, doctors advise resorting to antiviral agents, and not to antibacterial ones, in order to overcome the virus that caused the disease. Antibiotic treatment is carried out in the presence of bacterial complications.

The most popular antiviral drugs for colds are those with the following names:

  • Relenza;
  • Kagocel;
  • Tamiflu;
  • Grippoferon;
  • Arbidol;
  • Remantadine;
  • Cycloferon:
  • Groprinosin.

As well as homeopathic antiviral drugs for colds:

  • Anaferon;
  • Aflubin;
  • Oscillococcinum

Consider some of the drugs presented:

  1. Ribavirin prescribed for diseases associated with the activity of viruses of groups A0 and A2, effectively copes with rhinoviruses.
  2. Arbidol used to get rid of diseases caused by viruses A and B. Also, the agent inhibits adenoviruses and is effective for laragrippe.
  3. Groprinosin reduces the load on the body created by viruses, stimulates the synthesis of interferon, thus increasing resistance to diseases.
  4. Inosine Pranobex especially effective in the treatment of ailments associated with the influence of rhinoviruses, group B viruses and adenoviruses. Also, the use of the drug helps to cope with parainfluenza and the influenza virus.

Inexpensive antivirals for colds

Among the cheap means of destroying infectious particles are:

  1. , which has a clear interferonogenic effect. In addition to low cost, its advantages are the absence of side effects, including allergic reactions;
  2. Anaferon, which inhibits the activity of influenza viruses, parainfluenza, rotavirus, adenovirus, supports immunity. The drug is actively used with other drugs in combination for the treatment of diseases caused by the herpes virus.
  3. Amiksin stimulates the immune system, has a long-term effect. In many cases, a week is enough to drink one tablet.

Strong antiviral drugs for colds

The most powerful of all drugs are neuraminidase inhibitors, which weaken the enzyme responsible for the development of the virus. These include Zanamivir and Tamiflu.

Medicines inhibit the growth of viruses in groups A and B. Their use reduces the duration of the febrile stage by 50%, reduces the likelihood of complications by half. The main advantage of such funds is that they lose their action throughout the duration of the disease. However, due to numerous side effects, they are not prescribed to children under the age of twelve.

The most effective antiviral drugs for colds

The most convenient and effective form are interferons. These components are active against all viruses, since their activity is not limited by anything. Interferon is synthesized in the body, therefore the main side effect is intolerance to a foreign protein. The best antiviral drugs for colds in this category are: Cycloferon, Laferon, candles - Kipferon, nose drops - Grippferon.

Every year during seasonal fluctuations in temperature, people suffer from many unpleasant symptoms caused by the common cold.

In pharmacy chains, the range of antiviral drugs simply rolls over with its diversity.

Medicines differ not only in price, but also in the principle of action, form of release, composition.

Naturally, you should not arbitrarily prescribe cold medicines for yourself, but in order to navigate a little in such remedies, you should familiarize yourself with the proposed article. A list of cold medicines will allow you to understand the features of each drug.

Arbidol, Teraflu, Anaferon

Arbidol is a film-coated tablet against viruses. Their main active ingredient is umifenovir, auxiliary: potato starch, microcrystalline cellulose. The remedy is shown for:

  1. acute respiratory disease (ARI);
  2. severe respiratory syndrome;
  3. influenza type B, A,

The drug may well become part of complex therapy in the treatment of pneumonia, chronic bronchitis. Much less often, it is recommended for the prevention of health problems after undergoing surgical interventions in order to strengthen immunity.

Tablets for colds and flu are fast-acting. They will help improve the patient's condition the very next day after the start of the course of treatment.

Arbidol has no contraindications. The only caveat when using it: it can not be used for children who are under 3 years old. Babies under 12 years old are given 1 tablet per day, and 2 tablets for adults and children over 12 years old.

Healthy patients are not prescribed this cold remedy for prevention purposes.

Powder Theraflu

It needs to be diluted with hot boiled water. The main active ingredient is paracetamol. excipients steel pheniramine maleate, phenylephrine hydrochloride.

This is a new generation cold remedy. It is able to get rid of the disease and runny nose in just a day, but subject to the exact observance of the doctor's instructions and bed rest. Theraflu is characterized by the action:

  • antiviral;
  • antipyretic.

The powder must not be taken together with beta-blockers and antidepressants. Theraflu should not be prescribed to patients with diabetes mellitus, pregnant women, lactating women, people suffering from alcoholism, children under 12 years of age.

The medicine is fast-acting, but it is better to use it carefully. This is true if the patient suffers from arterial hypertension, severe disorders of the kidneys and liver.

Tablets for colds and flu contain antibodies that activate the functioning of the human immune system. The drug is recommended for the treatment of children from 12 years and adult patients. Made for kids special agent Anaferon for children. It can be used from 1 year of age.

You should know that this medicine is not only against viruses, but also to strengthen the immune system during seasonal fluctuations in air temperature. It helps to treat a herpes virus infection in a mild form.

Cold medicine Anaferon:

  1. acts quickly;
  2. has no contraindications;
  3. does not cause adverse reactions.

The drug should be abandoned only in case of individual intolerance to any of its components. In extremely rare cases, a skin rash is possible.

Kagocel, Coldrex, Antigrippin

Kagocel is the best fast-acting cold remedy. Not suitable for children under 3 years old, pregnant women and lactating women. You can not take pills with individual intolerance.

Preparations of such a plan are good to use to get rid of the common cold, herpes, flu, and acute viral infections. Kagocel is also suitable for the prevention of these ailments.

To in autumn period do not get sick, it is enough to take 1 tablet every day for a week. If a cold has already begun, you should take 2 pieces three times a day in the first few days. Children are given 1 tablet.

Provided that the patient strictly follows the doctor's instructions and strictly adheres to the instructions for use, the possibility of developing adverse reactions of the body is negligible. When the patient notes the development of allergies, you need to stop taking the medicine and consult a doctor to replace it.

Coldrex

This cold remedy comes in powder form. It should be diluted with boiling water and drunk hot. The drug Coldrex is characterized by a powerful antiviral effect and helps to cope with the signs of SARS. The list of symptoms, in addition to the common cold, includes:

  • headache;
  • nasal congestion;
  • increased body temperature;
  • aches in the joints;
  • discomfort in the throat.

Coldrex is no less effective against the common cold. The powder is not recommended to drink for colds in children, pregnant, lactating women, with severe liver dysfunction, diabetes, heart problems, angle-closure glaucoma.

For adults, a remedy for colds and flu in the first days of illness should be taken 1 packet every 4 hours. As soon as the symptoms of the disease stop, there is no need to apply the powder. The maximum course of therapy should not exceed 5 consecutive days.

If an overdose has occurred, the patient is at risk of severe liver damage. In addition, prolonged use of the drug increases the chance of developing side effects, for example, night sleep disturbances, increased levels blood pressure, nausea, headaches.

It is worth refraining from treatment with Coldrex without first consulting your doctor.

Antigrippin

Another drug against viruses is Antigrippin. It is believed that the medicine is the best and helps against the common cold, colds quickly and effectively. The tool is produced in the form of a tablet, like many similar drugs. Assign it to patients from 15 years.

This medicine will not help with a bacterial infection. It should be taken 1 piece 2-3 times a day until the patient feels better.

Antigrippin should not be taken by children with hypersensitivity to vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and paracetamol. It is also prohibited for such violations:

  1. renal failure;
  2. phenylketonuria;
  3. prostatic hyperplasia.

Contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women. It is prescribed with extreme caution to patients with viral hepatitis, alcohol dependence, and the elderly.

Ferveks, Amiksin, Ingavirin

There are drugs that instantly help with a cold. Fervex powder is commonly referred to as such. It will be no less effective in case of rhinopharyngitis.

The powder can be taken in combination with other anti-flu medicines. If the phase of the disease is acute, it is recommended to take 1 packet three times a day. During therapy, an interval between consumption of at least 4 hours should be observed.

The drug should not be taken by sick people suffering from renal insufficiency, excessive sensitivity to its individual components. During pregnancy, it is allowed only from the second trimester.

As for the lactation period, some components of the product may appear in breast milk. For this reason, it is better to refuse Fervex at this time.

It is forbidden to combine a cold medicine with products containing alcohol. This can lead to severe liver damage. Sometimes patients complain about the development of adverse reactions:

  • nausea;
  • pain syndrome in the abdominal cavity;
  • gagging;
  • dizziness.

Extremely rarely, allergic reactions can begin, for example, skin itching, rashes.

This remedy against viruses has an immunomodulatory effect. It is produced in the form of tablets, the main active ingredient is tilaksin. Auxiliary components of croscarmellose sodium, calcium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose.

Tablets are perfectly combined with other drugs against viruses, flu. During seasonal temperature fluctuations, they can be used to prevent SARS (in adults and children).

For adult patients with flu and colds, it is enough to take 1 tablet once a day for 3 days. For prevention, take 1 piece. The agent cannot be prescribed to patients with hypersensitivity of the body to the components of the drug, during pregnancy, lactation.

Medicines for colds and flu under this name are produced in the form of capsules. Ingavirin helps quickly and efficiently. Fever, headache, discomfort in the throat, body aches disappear a day after taking the remedy.

Capsules are prescribed to drink 1 time per day, regardless of food. Usually the general course of treatment does not exceed 5-7 days. Begin therapy immediately after the onset of the first symptoms of the disease, such as a runny nose. When treatment is delayed, the remedy, like other drugs, begins to work with less efficiency.

So, if the first capsule was drunk a few days after the onset of the disease, the result will not be able to come quickly.

Viferon, Anvimax, Grippferon

Many of the cold remedies and cold medicines discussed above are not always allowed for future and young nursing mothers and children. Therefore, the treatment of colds, runny nose, SARS in these patients cannot do without the medicine Viferon.

Candles are perhaps the fastest remedy for treating viral ailments. They have no contraindications, except for the first trimester of pregnancy. Such an effective medicine during flu and cold helps to get rid of symptoms.

Viferon copes with acute respiratory infections better than tablets and other drugs. Adult patients are prescribed 1 suppository three times a day. For children from one year old, the dosage is reduced to 1 suppository per day. And it should be noted that this is an extreme treatment for ARVI and flu at home.

Side effects in those who used cold and flu remedies in candles are usually absent. Allergic rashes and pruritus occur only in particularly extreme cases. If this happens, the treatment is canceled and other drugs against the common cold and viruses are used. The list of allowed funds is very extensive.

Anvimax cold and flu remedy is presented in the form of a powder. It is necessary for symptomatic therapy; it is not able to influence the root cause of the disease. The composition includes:

  • vitamin C;
  • paracetamol.

Patients with hypersensitivity to these components should use such drugs against the common cold and other symptoms of a cold with extreme caution. Powder is the best remedy among the rest. Anvimax is a fast-acting drug that relieves body temperature, headaches, aches and sore throats. If applied correctly, the medicine helps to overcome the disease in a short time.

The powder should not be administered to patients under the age of 18, people with renal insufficiency, sarcoidosis, chronic alcohol dependence, hypercalcemia, phenylketonuria.

Like many other cold medicines, Anvimax cannot be a remedy for pregnant and lactating women.

Take the powder strictly according to the instructions. During an exacerbation of symptoms, you need to drink 1 packet 2 to 3 times a day. On average, the course should not be longer than 5 days in a row.

Grippferon

Grippferon is a good medicine based on interferon, which helps fight viruses. It is also characterized by an immunomodulatory effect on the body.

The drug is approved for the treatment of pregnant women and children up to a year. The only contraindication is intolerance to individual components. Well treatments 5-7 days.

The named pills and other drugs are far from full list effective medicines. Flu remedies should be selected on an individual basis. However, even in this case, the development of adverse reactions cannot be avoided. Therefore, the treatment process should take place under the supervision of a doctor, as detailed in the video in this article.

New medicines for flu and colds

When a person catches a cold and gets an infection, he certainly thinks about which of the modern drugs will help, what to take with the flu? Scientists are developing more and more new tools, because viruses mutate every year, and more effective formulas are needed to combat them. A new generation of flu and cold medicine - what are its features? Find out how these drugs differ and what determines the effectiveness of the means of combating various diseases.

Modern remedies for flu and colds

Today pharmacology really offers a wide range of new drugs. Their advantages are obvious: they have a wide spectrum of action, give fewer side effects, it is convenient for a patient to use them at home, or in general, you can get vaccinated so as not to get sick during an ARVI epidemic. When choosing medicines, do not forget that not all advertised drugs are effective.

The cost of these commercials is included in the price of medicines, the packages of which regularly flash on TV. If we compare the instructions, almost all imported expensive drugs have inexpensive domestic counterparts. So, "Coldrex" (price 150-240 rubles) and "Fervex" (315-590 rubles) contain paracetamol in the composition. Paracetamol tablets can be bought at a pharmacy for 3-5 rubles, and most doctors even consider them the safest medicine for acute respiratory infections during pregnancy and lactation.


Effective cold medicines

The modern pharmaceutical industry produces cold remedies that work in two directions and complement each other. One group of drugs is helping to cope with the manifestations of the disease: runny nose, cough, headache, fever, sore throat. Another segment of drugs exhibits immunomodulatory and antibacterial effects.

For adults

Check out some examples of drugs that are used for colds:

What does it affect

Drug group

Examples of drugs

Eliminate the cause

Antiviral.

Tablets "Acyclovir", "Amantadine".

Antibiotics (used as a last resort, when the body itself can not cope with pathogenic bacteria).

Tablets and powders for injection "Ampicillin", "Levofloxacin".

Strengthen immunity

Immunomodulators.

"Amiksin", "Cycloferon".

Vitamin complexes, preparations based on medicinal herbs.

Askorutin, Aevit.

Relieve symptoms

Antipyretic, relieve body aches.

Coldrex, Paracetamol, Rinza tablets, Theraflu powder in sachets, Solpadein effervescent tablets.

Medicines to relieve cough.

Syrups "ACC", "Ambroxol", "Alteika".

Vasoconstrictor for the nose from a cold.

"Oxymetazoline", "Polydex with phenylephrine".

To soothe the throat.

Sprays "Kameton", "Oracept", Ingalipt" "Chlorophylipt".

For kids

When choosing children's antibacterial drugs, it is important to follow the doctor's recommendations, not to self-medicate. You can help:

  • antibiotics "Amoxiclav", "Zinnat" "Supraks";
  • to relieve heat - Panadol syrup, Paracetamol tablets;
  • from a cold - spray "Otrivin", drops "Nazivin";
  • as prevention - vitamin complexes "Alphavit", "Pikovit".

Modern medicines for influenza

What are the similarities and differences between new generation cold and flu medicines? For both ailments, medications are taken that relieve the symptoms of diseases. With the flu, antibiotics are not prescribed, because they are effective only for fighting bacteria - the causative agents of the cold, and do not act on strains of the virus. Consider the pharmacological groups of modern antiviral drugs against influenza, depending on their mode of action.


Etiotropic

Such antiviral medicines for influenza act in a targeted manner, preventing the reproduction of viruses. These include:

  • "Oseltamivir" - the active substance of oseltamivir phosphate inhibits (inhibits) neuraminidase - a key enzyme involved in the replication (reproduction) of influenza viruses, and disrupts their ability to penetrate into the cell.
  • "Remantadine" - the active substance rimantadine hydrochloride is effective against influenza viruses A2 and B.
  • "Arbidol" - umiferon, which is part of the capsules, has an immunostimulating effect.


Immunotropic

Immunotropic antiviral drugs are interferons or their inducers (pathogens), which help the body's natural defense system to fight the disease, destroying the virus at the initial stage of reproduction. They are effective in the first two days after the onset of flu symptoms. Check out the names and brief description these medicines:

Name

Active substance

The effect of the application

"Viferon"

Tocopherol, ascorbic acid

Stimulates the immune system, fights the virus.

"Ridostin"

Interferon inducer

Immunomodulatory action.

"Hyporamine"

Buckthorn leaf extract

Antiviral action, induces the production of interferon in blood cells.

"Amixin"

Human interferon inductor, inhibits the synthesis of viral proteins.

"Reaferon"

Interferon

Prevents the penetration of the virus into the cell and the synthesis of viral proteins.

Vitaglutam

Suppresses the reproduction of the influenza virus, anti-inflammatory effect.

"Interferon"

Human interferon

A powerful immunomodulator, an effective antiviral drug that stimulates macrophages. It increases the body's resistance to the penetration of viruses, and when it enters the cell, it blocks their reproduction. The mechanism of action is not directed against a specific type of virus, because this medicine is universal.

"Cycloferon"

Meglumine acridone acetate

Strong immunomodulator, antiviral effect, effective against influenza and herpes.

Pathogenetic

Such anti-influenza drugs act on the mechanism of the development of the disease, helping to overcome the infection and preventing the development of complications. These include:

Symptomatic

These powders, drops, sprays, flu tablets are fast-acting remedies for the symptoms of viral intoxication:

Drug group

What does it affect

Examples of drugs

Active substance

Mucolytics

Contribute to the discharge of mucus, regeneration of the bronchial mucosa.

"Fluditec"

Carbocysteine

"Flavamed"

Ambroxol

Secretolytics

Relieves inflammation of the respiratory tract.

"Sinupret"

plant-based

For the treatment of the common cold

Reduces the amount of secretions, swelling of the mucosa.

"Nazivin"

Oxymetazoline

Vasoconstrictor anticongestive agent.

"Sanorin"

Nafazoline

Video about choosing the right flu medicine

Reviews

Albina, 26 years old: Since childhood, when I have a cold, when the fever rises, my head hurts, I take Paracetamol for 3-4 days. At one time I fell for advertising, drank instant "Coldrex", "Rinza". After I read on one forum what kind of active ingredient is sold at a fabulous price, I returned to the proven penny remedy.

Zoya, 32 years old: Before pregnancy, I often had a cold on my lips, and I was afraid that herpes would not appear during the bearing of a child. The doctor prescribed me the anti-herpes drug Hyporamine. I immediately liked that it was plant-based. I drank for two months, the pills really helped.

Tatyana, 47 years old: Interferon was attributed to my child. I read the instructions for the ampoules, I was embarrassed that it is actually made from the blood of donors, and also a list of its side effects. I diluted the medicine and dripped it into my son's nose according to the instructions. I didn't notice any special results, I won't use it again.

Antiviral drugs for colds are the main tool in the fight against this category of ailments.

As you know, during the period of activation of colds, it is better to engage in their prevention, and not bring them to states where treatment is already necessary. Activating the immune system in the cold season is the most effective measure to protect yourself from colds. Then the disease will not develop, or at least the situation will not become severe.

If the disease is of a viral nature - an acute respiratory viral disease (ARVI) - then treatment is indispensable here. And the best in this case antiviral drugs deal with the problem. The essence of their action is in the impact on the virus itself, which is an etiological factor.

Antiviral drugs are used to treat SARS and influenza. These drugs interfere with the replication of the virus in such a way as to stop it from multiplying. Antiviral drugs have a synthetic base or a natural one. They are used both in the fight against the disease and for its prevention. Different stages of the common cold can be affected by antiviral drugs. To date modern science knows about five hundred pathogens of different types of colds. There are few antiviral drugs to combat them.

Basically, viral diseases are treated with three types of drugs:

  • broad spectrum flu medicines;
  • drugs for the treatment of herpes infections.
  • means for combating cytomegalovirus.

In the case of a severe form of the disease, antiviral drugs are taken, with a mild form, the use of interferons is acceptable. Within a day and a half after the onset of the first symptoms, it is urgent to start taking an antiviral drug. If the virus is allowed to multiply to such an extent that it colonizes the entire body, then it can be brought to the point that taking medications will not have any effect.

The effect of antiviral drugs in colds

With the help of antiviral drugs, the causes of the onset and development of acute respiratory disease are eliminated. The results of this action are:

  • reducing the risk of exacerbations of chronic diseases (chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, etc.);
  • shortening the duration of the course of a cold by several days, alleviating its symptoms;
  • reducing the risk that severe complications will appear after an acute respiratory illness.

Antiviral drugs for colds are also used as an emergency prophylaxis in the event that a family member is ill and it is necessary to reduce the risk of infection of healthy people.

Antiviral pills for colds

In the class where there are synthetic antiviral drugs that do a good job with the influenza virus, there are two groups of effective drugs. The essence of the action of M-channel blockers is to block the virus so that it cannot enter the cells and multiply. One of the proven drugs against viruses in this category is Amantadine (Midantan), as well as Rimantadine (Remantadine). For the desired effect, they must be taken as soon as the disease begins to manifest itself. Another drawback is that it is not always possible to understand what kind of virus a person has fallen ill with. And these antiviral drugs are indicated for an epidemic of influenza A virus. In addition, bird and swine flu resistant to them. It is important to remember that taking an antiviral drug for a cold should be done not only by the sick person, but also by all members of his family.

An effective antiviral remedy for colds

But neuraminidase inhibitors act on influenza viruses A and B. The essence of their action is to suppress the enzyme that is responsible for the reproduction of the virus. Representatives of this group of drugs are Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and Zanamivir (Relenza). You can start taking them within two days from the initial manifestations of the disease.

List of antiviral drugs for colds

  • "Tamiflu";
  • "Relenza";
  • "Grippferon";
  • "Amixin";
  • "Kagocel";
  • "Remantadin";
  • "Viferon";
  • "Ribavirin";
  • "Amizon";
  • "Cycloferon".

Antiviral drug for colds "Zanamivir"

"Zanamivir" is prescribed for influenza in adults and children over 5 years old, 5 mg inhalation twice a day for 5 days. The total daily dose reaches 10 mg. The drug is not combined with other inhaled drugs (including bronchodilators), due to the fact that exacerbations are possible in patients with bronchial asthma and other nonspecific lung diseases. In a number of people without pulmonary pathology, there may be signs of irritation of the nasopharynx, reaching in rare cases until the appearance of bronchospasm.

Antiviral drug for colds "Oseltamivir"

For influenza for adults and children over 12 years of age, the recommended dose of Oseltamivir is 75 mg 2 times a day for at least 5 days. "Oseltamivir" is prescribed for children over 1 year old - with a body weight of less than 15 kg, 30 mg, from 15 to 23 kg, 45 mg, from 23 to 40 kg, 60 mg, more than 40 kg - 75 mg twice a day for five days.


The drug is prescribed with caution in renal failure, it can cause nausea and vomiting when taken.

Antiviral drugs for colds with a broader spectrum of action - Ribavirin (Ribarin) and Inosine Pranobex (Groprinosin).

Antiviral drug for colds "Ribavirin"

"Ribavirin" acts on influenza A and B group viruses, parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus, coronaviruses, rhinoviruses. A feature of the drug is its high toxicity, so it is used only if a respiratory syncytial infection is confirmed, which often leads to bronchiolitis in children.


Ribavirin is used to treat influenza in adults over 18 years of age (200 mg 3-4 times a day with meals for 5-7 days) in the absence of pregnancy, renal failure and hemolytic anemia.

Antiviral drug for colds "Inosine pranobex"

"Inosine pranobex" fights influenza viruses, parainfluenza, rhinoviruses, adenoviruses. This antiviral drug for colds stimulates the human body's defenses. For the treatment of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections, it is recommended to take it: for adults, 2 tablets 3-4 times a day at regular intervals for 5-7 days; children daily dose is 50 mg per kilogram of body weight.


Take the daily dose in 3-4 receptions at regular intervals. The duration of treatment is 5-7 days.

Interferons and interferon inducers

Other large group antiviral drugs for colds - interferons and interferon inducers. Interferons are protein substances that the body synthesizes as a response to infection, due to them the body is more resistant to viruses. They have a wide spectrum of action, which compares favorably with many others. synthetic drugs. But some experts argue that with SARS they are not very effective. In the case of colds, they are prescribed as nasal drops and rectal suppositories. Native leukocyte interferon is instilled four to six times a day, Reaferon (interferon alfa-2a) two drops twice to four times a day. Viferon (alpha-2b interferon) usually comes as suppositories, adults usually use Viferon 3 and 4.


There are also interferon inducers. These are drugs that stimulate the body to produce its own interferons. Colds are treated with "Tiloron" ("Amiksin"), "Meglumine acridone acetate" ("Cycloferon") and a number of other antiviral drugs for colds.

Antiviral drug for colds "Amiksin"

For the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory infections, Amiksin is prescribed orally after meals, two tablets of 0.125 g for adults and 0.06 g for children over 7 years old on the first day of illness and then 1 tablet every other day.


For a course of treatment - up to 6 tablets. Contraindicated in pregnant women and children under 7 years of age.

Antiviral drug for colds "Cycloferon"

"Cycloferon" is used to treat influenza and acute respiratory infections in the form of intramuscular injections at a dose of 250 mg (12.5% ​​in 2 ml) two days in a row, then every other day or 1 tablet of 0.15 g every other day for 20 days.


Antiviral drug for colds "Kagocel"

"Kagocel" is an interferon inducer with a direct antiviral and immunomodulatory effect.


Usually it is prescribed for influenza and acute respiratory infections for adults, 2 tablets 3 times a day for the first two days (daily dose is 72 mg), then 1 tablet 3 times a day (daily dose 36 mg). In total, up to 18 tablets fall on a 4-day course.

Antiviral drug for colds "Arbidol"

An antiviral drug such as Arbidol is effective in treating colds. It acts against viruses A, B, they are also treated with parainfluenza, syncytial infections, adenoviruses. The essence of the action of the drug is to stimulate the production of endogenous interferon, it has an antioxidant effect, strengthens the immune system.


Arbidol for colds without complications is prescribed: for children from 3 to 6 years old - 50 mg, from 6 to 12 years old - 100 mg, over 12 years old and adults - 200 mg 4 times a day (every 6 hours) for 5 days. With the development of complications (bronchitis, pneumonia, etc.), children from 3 to 6 years old take Arbidol 50 mg, from 6 to 12 years old - 100 mg, over 12 years old, adults - 200 mg 4 times a day (every 6 hours ) for 5 days, then a single dose once a week for a month.

Antiviral drug for colds "Amizon"

The antiviral drug for colds "Amizon" is an inducer of endogenous interferon, has antiviral, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects.


Adults take "Amizon" 2-4 times a day after meals with moderate flu and acute respiratory infections, 0.25 g, with severe - 0.5 g for 5-7 days; the course dose of treatment is 3-6.5 g. Children aged 6-12 years old drink 0.125 g 2-3 times a day for 5-7 days.

Antiviral drug for colds "Anaferon"

"Anaferon" refers to homeopathic remedies with antiviral and immunomodulatory effects. It is also used to treat colds and flu. Dosage for adults: 1 tablet, sublingually from three times a day to six, depending on the severity of the disease.


Treatment begins at the first respiratory symptoms. After the condition improves, it is recommended to switch to taking the drug once a day, for 8-10 days. For children from six months to three years old, dissolve one tablet in 15 ml of water and give to drink. For prevention, "Anaferon" is prescribed one tablet once a day, for one to three months.

Antiviral drug for colds "Grippferon"

"Grippferon" is an immunomodulatory, antiviral and anti-inflammatory drug for intranasal use. The duration of the course of use and the dose of the drug "Grippferon" is usually determined by the attending doctor.


The recommended dose for children under 1 year of age is 500 IU (1 drop of the drug) 5 times a day; for children from 1 to 3 years old is 1000 IU (2 drops of "Grippferon") 3-4 times a day; from 3 to 14 years is 1000 IU (2 drops of the drug "Grippferon") 4-5 times a day. The recommended dose for adults is 1500 IU (3 drops) 5-6 times a day. The duration of the course of application is 5 days.

Herbal antivirals for colds

Some medicinal herbs also have antiviral effects. The action of many herbal preparations directed against viruses belonging to the herpes family. Colds are often accompanied by herpetic eruptions, in addition, the course of cytomegalovirus infection also often occurs with the same symptoms as SARS. Alpizarin belongs to this category of drugs. The active substance in it is an extract of plants such as alpine kopeechnik, yellowing kopeechnik, mango leaves. The antiviral drug "Flakozid" contains an active ingredient, which is obtained from Amur velvet and Laval velvet. For external use, ointments are used "Megozin" (cotton oil), "Helepin" (the ground part of the Lespedeza penny), "Gossypol" (obtained when cotton seeds or cotton roots are processed).

Altabor also belongs to antiviral drugs that are used for colds. It is based on an extract of gray and black (glutinous) alder seedlings.


Soddy pike and ground reed grass give life to the drug "Proteflazid", it is also used in the treatment of colds, flu and for their prevention. The German drug "Imupret" has an antiviral and immunomodulatory effect. It consists of horsetail, walnut leaves and oak bark.

The price of antiviral drugs for colds

The run-up in prices for antiviral drugs for colds is quite wide - from 20 to 200 hryvnia (of course, it still depends on the packaging and the number of tablets). In any case, it is better to consult with your doctor, who will prescribe a drug that will be most effective in a particular case.

If we call the approximate prices for the main antiviral drugs used to treat colds, in Ukrainian pharmacies they are: "Amizon" - from 20 UAH, "Arbidol" - from 50 UAH, "Amiksin" - from 30 UAH, "Anaferon" - from 40 UAH, "Remantadin" - from 11 UAH, "Kagocel" from 70 UAH, "Viferon" - from 70 UAH - from 110 UAH.

Inexpensive antivirals for colds

Inexpensive antiviral drugs for colds, which are often prescribed by doctors and widely used - "Amizon", "Amiksin", "Anaferon". For 20-40 hryvnia, you can buy 10 tablets. But once again we pay attention: before deciding on the purchase of an antiviral drug for a cold, you should consult with your doctor.

With the help of antiviral drugs, it is not the consequence that is eliminated, but the cause of the onset of a cold. This is a great advantage of antiviral drugs in the treatment of colds, this also explains their effectiveness. Antiviral drugs shorten the duration of a cold by two to three days, making it easier for her. Due to the intake of antiviral drugs for colds, the risk that other chronic diseases will worsen (exacerbation of bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis and other diseases) will decrease, and various complications will not arise, as is often the case with other drugs. In addition, antiviral drugs for colds have an excellent effect in the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, including among healthy family members when the patient is at home.

Names of antibiotics for colds and flu

In the treatment of respiratory diseases, targeted drugs are used that affect the cause of the disease. They suppress pathogens. Such therapy is called etiological. In the fight against flu and colds, the main thing is to choose the right medications. Some people, in an effort to recover as soon as possible, begin to drink strong antibiotics for colds at the first symptoms of SARS. Is it correct?

When to Take Antibiotics for Colds and Flu

In most cases, respiratory diseases are caused by viruses that antibacterial drugs do not work against. Therefore, their reception from the first day of the disease is not justified. Therapy of respiratory diseases with antibiotics is justified if, on the 5th-6th day of the course of the flu or a cold, a person feels consistently unwell. As a rule, these are symptoms of a bacterial infection that provokes the development of purulent tonsillitis, acute bronchitis, pneumonia.


Signs of flu and cold complications:

  • after the onset of acute respiratory viral infections, after improvement for 5-6 days, the body temperature rises sharply;
  • general health worsens, fever, cough, shortness of breath appear;
  • increased pain in the throat, chest area, ears;
  • enlarged lymph nodes.

When treating colds and flu with antibiotics, do not interrupt treatment if you feel better. People who make this mistake then suffer twice as much. In this case, the improvement in a person’s condition does not mean that the disease has passed. A batch of bacteria died under the influence of antibiotics, but another part of them adapts to the drug and begins to attack the weakened body with renewed vigor. This leads to a new round of the disease with subsequent complications.

What antibiotics are better to take for a cold


For the treatment of respiratory diseases, bactericidal drugs are taken to destroy pathogenic microorganisms. Antibiotics in the fight against colds and flu are given the role of heavy artillery when there is a risk of acute complications. Three main groups of antibacterial drugs are used to treat respiratory diseases:

  1. penicillin - ampioks, augmentin, amoxapclave;
  2. cephalosporins - cefotaxime, cefpirome, cefazolin;
  3. macrolides - roxithromycin, azithromycin, clarithromycin.

List of effective antibiotics for adults


For colds of bacterial origin, doctors prescribe antibiotics in extreme cases. Prolonged cough, prolonged sore throat, severe fever, consistently high body temperature are alarming signs of the development of an acute illness. In this case, traditional antiviral drugs, immunostimulants, vitamins and medicinal herbs are powerless. For effective therapy you need to know which antibiotic is better for a cold for an adult:

  • amoxicillin;
  • arlet;
  • flemoklav;
  • rovamycin;
  • azithromycin;
  • chemomycin;
  • suprax;
  • cefepime;
  • erythromycin;
  • levofloxacin.

Names of good drugs for children


For Therapy bacterial diseases at an early age, antibiotics are used in extreme cases. With pneumonia, acute otitis media, purulent tonsillitis, which is the result of a respiratory illness, the use of such drugs is justified. The form of antibiotics is prescribed depending on the age of the child. Babies - drugs in injections, older children - in tablets. Babies do not always get injections, it is allowed to open the ampoule and give the child the medicine to drink in the right dosage. Children's antibiotics for colds:

  • ampicillin;
  • flemoxin solutab;
  • moximac;
  • avelox;
  • augmentin;
  • zinnat;
  • macrofoams;
  • fromilid uno;
  • esparoxy;
  • alpha normix.

Often parents mistakenly believe that antibiotic therapy is necessary to successfully treat flu and colds in children. This is a misconception about the effect of antibiotics on the child's body. With viral infections in children, the appointment of these drugs is unreasonable, even if high temperature, which persists for a long time.


Antibiotic treatment of children leads to dysbacteriosis, weakening of the immune system, anemia. It is advisable to carry out antibiotic therapy for babies only in critical situations. For example, when there is aerobic streptococcal angina, acute otitis media, pneumonia, inflammation paranasal sinuses nose. The use of antibiotics for the treatment of children with colds and flu without complications is justified when:

  • pronounced signs of reduced body resistance - constant subfertile body temperature, frequent colds and viral diseases, HIV, oncology, congenital immunity disorders;
  • rickets, vices general development, lack of weight;
  • the presence in the anamnesis of the child of chronic recurrent otitis media.

Gentle preparations for the treatment of colds in pregnant women


When treating complications of a respiratory disease in a pregnant woman or a nursing mother, the effects of the antibiotic on the development of the fetus are taken into account. For treatment, sparing antibacterial drugs are selected. To choose the right medicine, the doctor identifies the causative agent of the disease, its resistance to various drugs. If it is impossible to conduct such a study, sparing antibiotics for pregnant women are prescribed:

  • ampicillin;
  • oxacillin;
  • cefazolin;
  • erythromycin;
  • azithromycin;
  • bioparox;
  • minocycline;
  • oxamp;
  • ericcycline;
  • ristomycin.

For the treatment of flu and colds in pregnant and lactating mothers, in order to avoid the occurrence of dysbacteriosis, it is advisable to take drugs in the form of injections. To avoid allergic reactions, the use of antibiotic therapy is combined with antihistamines. Chocolate, citrus fruits, coffee are excluded from the diet of pregnant and lactating women.

List of broad-spectrum antibiotics

In bacterial therapy for the treatment of complications of influenza and colds, drugs are prescribed aimed at suppressing groups of pathogens. These drugs are called broad-spectrum antibiotics. They help to cure the complications of influenza and acute respiratory infections. Cheap pills are as effective as expensive ones. These types of drugs are sold in pharmacies without a prescription. Before taking, read the instructions and read reviews about antibiotics. Good drug has few side effects. Broad spectrum antibiotics:

  • amosin;
  • becampicillin;
  • ospamox;
  • ecoball;
  • inforo;
  • kefselim;
  • flamifix;
  • cefodox;
  • klacid;
  • oletherin.

Cold medicines. What medicines to take for a cold

The risk of catching an acute respiratory disease haunts people at any time of the year, even in hot summers. But especially often colds annoy us in winter months as well as during the off-season. What cold medicines can help get rid of it most quickly and effectively? Our review is devoted to the answer to this question.

Antipyretic and anti-inflammatory drugs

When we have a bad cold, then, as a rule, we have a fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough - the symptoms are unpleasant, to be sure. What drugs for colds will help to quickly alleviate the condition, lower the temperature, relieve swelling in the nasopharynx, slow down or even stop the development of inflammatory processes in the body? There are three proven, reliable and universal medicines:

- "Aspirin";

- "Ibuprofen";

- Paracetamol.


All of the listed cold pills are widely used in therapy against acute respiratory infections, but today it is believed that Paracetamol is the safest. It is available not only in tablets, but also in the form of rectal suppositories, syrups and drops (for young children). Analogues are the drugs "Panadol", "Efferalgan", "Kalpol", "Flyutabs" and other drugs. Based on paracetamol, many modern drugs for flu and colds are produced:

  • "Solpadein";
  • "Caffetin";
  • "Coldrex";
  • "Theraflu";
  • "Rinza";
  • "Maxicold";
  • "Parkocet";
  • "Sedalgin";
  • "Grippeks" and others.

The question may arise: "If all these drugs for the treatment of colds are united by paracetamol, how do they differ from each other?" The fact is that all of these medicines include various additional components that help the body cope with the disease faster. For example, in addition to paracetamol, the notorious Fervex also includes substances such as ascorbic acid and pheniramine; Solpadeine contains small doses of codeine and caffeine, etc.

What are the dangers of paracetamol?

This drug is well tolerated by most patients with relatively few contraindications. In favor of paracetamol is the fact that this medicine is approved for use even by infants (in drops and syrups). However, even the safest cold medicines can have certain effects on the body. side effects. And the drug "Paracetamol" is no exception.


The press writes a lot about medical studies claiming that this drug, taken in childhood, can further provoke the development of asthma in adolescents, and also contributes to the occurrence of eczema and allergic rhinitis. Therefore, cold medicines for children should not be used without good reason and without first consulting a doctor.

Paracetamol negatively affects the liver (however, like many other drugs), so patients with severe diseases of this organ should take this drug with great caution.

Cold medications

Which cold and flu remedy can effectively deal with nasal congestion with a runny nose? Such a medicine should be sought among the so-called decongestants - drugs that have the ability to constrict blood vessels, as a result of which they can relieve swelling of the nasopharynx, and the sick person gets the opportunity to breathe relatively freely.

These drugs are available both in the form of tablets and in the form of drops, ointments and sprays. The most popular today are sprays, drops and emulsions. All vasoconstrictor drugs can be divided into three groups: short-acting, medium and long-term.

Short-acting cold medicines include:

  • "Sanorin";
  • "Tizin";
  • "Naphthyzin"

The advantage of these drops is their fast action and an inexpensive price, and the disadvantage is that they "work" for only a few hours, and sometimes even less. Meanwhile, it is allowed to bury them in the nose no more than 4 times a day.

Medium acting drugs:

  • "Rinostop";
  • "Xymelin";
  • "Galazolin";
  • "Xilen";
  • "Otrivin".

The composition of the listed drops and sprays includes the substance xylometazoline. It is thanks to him that in these drugs the duration of action (up to 10 hours) is successfully combined with high efficiency. Disadvantage: these drugs should not be instilled into the nose of children before two years of age, and their use should not last more than 7 days.

Long-acting cold medicines for a runny nose:

  • "Nazol";
  • Nazivin.

It is permissible to use these funds only twice a day and no more than 3 days in a row. They are able to provide free breathing for a long time. The disadvantages include the fact that prolonged vasospasm acts destructively on the nasal mucosa. Contraindications for use are the age of the child under 1 year, pregnancy, as well as diabetes and kidney disease.

If your throat hurts

We continue to study the question of how to fight against the flu and colds. The drugs that are used for this cannot be limited to temperature pills and nasal drops. If the throat hurts, and this happens with acute respiratory infections in most cases, then effective medicines for it are also needed.

Today, various absorbable lozenges and pills that can have a local anti-inflammatory effect, as well as aerosols, are very popular:

  • "Ingalipt";
  • "Ambassador";
  • "Kameton";
  • "Faringosept";
  • "Aqualor throat";
  • "Yox";
  • "Laripront";
  • Strepsils;
  • "Geksoral";
  • "Theraflu LAR";
  • "Septolete Neo";
  • "Septolete plus";
  • "Anti-Angin";
  • "Agisept";
  • "Sebidin";
  • "Stopangin" and others.

The big advantage of these drugs is that they are indicated for topical use, their penetration into the body is negligible, they practically do not enter the bloodstream. Meanwhile, these drugs have strong action against viruses and microbes that, during a cold, actively multiply in the mouth and cause inflammation and sore throat.

However, you need to understand that with severe sore throat, such medicines will not be able to completely cope with the disease. The attending physician usually also prescribes effective pills for flu and colds, sometimes it can even be antibiotics. You can also read about them in our article.

What helps with a cough

Runny nose, sore throat, fever - these are far from all the symptoms of acute respiratory infections. If a person coughs heavily with a cold, what to drink then? It will be better if the doctor prescribes the medicine based on the diagnosis, because cough can be caused by various reasons (bronchitis, laryngitis, pneumonia, tracheitis, etc.). In addition, the cough can be dry or wet, with sputum discharge.

To get rid of a dry painful cough, remedies such as:

  • "Codelac";
  • "Stoptussin";
  • "Terpinkod";
  • "Tussin plus";
  • "Sinekod";
  • "Neo-codion";
  • "Cofanol";
  • "Insty";
  • "Glycodin";
  • "Butamirat";
  • "Bronchicum";
  • "Falimint";
  • "Geksapnevmin" and other drugs.

Expectorants for the treatment of wet cough:

  • "Bromhexine";
  • "Lazolvan";
  • "ACC";
  • "Mukaltin";
  • "Tussin";
  • "Glyceram";
  • "Ambrobene" and others.

Antibiotics

Sometimes the disease is so severe that the doctor decides to prescribe the most powerful drugs, which are only available in the arsenal of modern pharmacology. What antibiotics for a cold should be taken by a patient - only a qualified doctor can decide. The fact is that different bacterial drugs affect different types bacteria. Here is a list of modern antibiotics that are most often used in the treatment of acute respiratory infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheitis, etc.:

1. Penicillin group:

  • "Amoxicillin";
  • "Amoxiclav";
  • "Augmentin" and others.

These drugs are effective against bacteria that cause inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.

2. Group of cephalosporins:

  • "Zincef";
  • "Zinnat";
  • "Suprax".

Medicines of this group help with bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy.

3. Group of macrolides:

  • "Summamed";
  • "Hemomycin".

This is one of the most powerful antibiotics of the latest generation. They are able to quickly cope even with SARS.


Antivirals

Often people equate the flu with the common cold. This is because the symptoms are very similar. With the flu, the throat also hurts, the nose does not breathe, the head hurts, the body temperature rises, etc. That is why, self-medicating, unfortunate patients try to fight the flu by taking conventional cold medicines, including antibiotics, which can do much harm to themselves .

Meanwhile, you need to know that the nature of the flu is not bacterial, as with ordinary acute respiratory infections, but viral. This means that antiviral drugs are required here to fight the disease. The following medicines are most often used in complex therapy in the treatment of influenza:

  • "Amixin";
  • "Kagocel";
  • "Relenza";
  • "Grippferon";
  • "Rimantadine";
  • "Midantan";
  • "Ribamidil";
  • "Interferon".


Medications that strengthen the immune system

When we are already ill, then flu and cold pills, of course, will help to quickly overcome the disease and get better, but there are medicines that can be used to strengthen immunity and avoid infection even at the peak of the acute respiratory disease epidemic.

Very popular and safe are immunomodulators that are produced on a plant basis:

  • "Immunal";
  • "Echinacea tincture";
  • Echinacea extract "Doctor Theiss";
  • "Ginseng tincture";
  • "Eleutherococcus extract";
  • "Chinese magnolia vine tincture".

You can also increase the body's resistance to colds with the help of drugs that contain enzymes of various pathogens (streptococcus, staphylococcus, pneumococcus, etc.) in microscopic doses. The pharmacy chain sells the following drugs for the prevention of colds from this group:

  • "Likopid";
  • "Ribomunil";
  • "Broncho-munal";
  • "Imudon";
  • "IRS-19".

vitamins

When you have a cold, what else to drink? Usually, the doctor must prescribe vitamins to his patients who have caught acute respiratory infections. In no case should this recommendation be neglected, because such drugs effectively strengthen the body of a sick person, stimulate the immune system, help damaged cells regenerate, etc. Here is a list of vitamins that we need to successfully fight a cold:

1. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid, or ascorbic acid). This is the most powerful helper for acute respiratory infections. It is able to actively inhibit the reproduction of viruses and bacteria. In case of illness, it is recommended to take 1000-1500 mg of vitamin C per day;

2. Thiamine (B1). It promotes the regeneration of damaged epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract.

3. Riboflavin - vitamin B2. Needed by the body for the synthesis of antibodies.

4. Pyridoxine - vitamin B6. Participates in the regenerative processes of nerve endings in case of damage to the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract.

5. Nicotinic acid - vitamin PP. Thanks to him, blood circulation improves, blood vessels are restored.

6. Retinol - vitamin A. This is a very necessary element for the successful regeneration of epithelial cells.

7. Tocopherol - vitamin E. It has powerful antioxidant properties; can stimulate the immune system.

Of course, vitamins enter our body with food, but this is not enough, especially in winter and spring. In the pharmacy you can buy universal multivitamin complexes, for example:

  • "Complivit";
  • "Multivit";
  • "Polyvit";
  • "Undevit";
  • "Panheksavit";
  • "Oligovit";
  • "Nutrisan";
  • "Macrovit";
  • Hexavit and many others.

There are multivitamin preparations, the action of which is enhanced by useful minerals. It can be difficult to figure out the abundance of vitamin products on your own, so it’s better to rely on the choice of a doctor.

Medicines for children

Medicines for colds for children should be prescribed by a pediatrician. After all, individual drugs from an adult home first aid kit can be harmful to children. But having some proven medicines on hand in a family where there is a baby is also necessary.

Antipyretics for children:

  • "Panadol" for children in candles or in suspension.
  • Panadol analogues: Cefekon, Kalpol, Efferalgan.

Cough medicines:

  • Syrup "Tussin".
  • Solution or syrup "Lazolvan".
  • "Sinekod" in drops or syrup (for dry cough).

For ears, throat and nose:

  • "Nazol kids" and "Nazol baby" (spray and drops) - from the common cold.
  • "Otipaks" - ear drops that do not contain an antibiotic.
  • "Aqua-Maris" - a weak solution of sea salt in the form of a spray. Well moisturizes and cleanses the mucous membrane of the throat and nose from bacteria. Analogues: "Salfin" and "Dolin".

The funds listed are enough to last until the arrival of the doctor.


Folk remedies

Good cold pills are definitely great! But some people, for various reasons, prefer to be treated exclusively natural remedies. Well, traditional medicine can offer many excellent recipes and recommendations. Here are some of the most versatile and effective:

1. Raspberry tea is a remedy for colds and flu, which has been used by mankind since time immemorial. Raspberries in dried form or in the form of jam will help to quickly lower the temperature, they have antipyretic properties, because they contain natural salicylic acid. In addition, raspberries are rich in vitamin C.

2. Honey (proportion 1:1) is added to the garlic gruel, the drug is thoroughly mixed and given to the patient twice a day, one or two teaspoons. Garlic is also recommended for inhalation. To do this, several of its cloves are crushed, filled with water (1 tbsp.) And boiled for 10 minutes. Then this "shock" medicine can be placed in front of the patient so that he breathes over him.

3. Another remedy (and very effective) for colds is regular milk. Perhaps you do not know that it contains enzymes that enhance immunity, and there is also the substance tryptophan, which contributes to the production of serotonin in the body - a strong sedative. In a liter of milk, you need to add a few tablespoons of honey, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, bay leaf and a couple of peas of allspice. Bring the milk potion to a boil and insist 5 minutes before drinking.

4. If the patient is suffering from a cough, you can try to use such a proven remedy as black radish juice mixed with honey. The drug is prepared as follows: the top is cut off from the washed root crop, part of the pulp is scraped out of the middle, so that an empty cavity forms. Honey (2 tsp) is placed in the hole, and the radish is closed with a cut top, like a lid. Wait 12 hours - during this time, juice will stand out, which, when combined with honey, will turn into an antitussive medicine. It is recommended to take the remedy as follows: for adults - 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day, for children - 1 tsp. three times a day.


Prevention

We are used to the fact that from time to time we have to fight against the flu and colds. Drugs are available in pharmacies in abundance, so most people meet the disease with the confidence that it will not be difficult to cure. But prevention is great and necessary thing. Therefore, now we recall what preventive measures help to happily miss a serious illness:

1. Flu shot. Every year doctors warn the population about the need for timely vaccination, but many of us simply ignore this, and in vain.

2. In the cold season, when there is little sun outside, and there are not enough fresh fruits and vegetables on the table, you can and should feed yourself with synthetic vitamin complexes and do not forget about lemon, cranberries, rosehip broth - all this will save the body from vitamin deficiency FROM.

3. Oxolinic ointment, carefully applied to the nasal mucosa before going outside, is a strong shield that can repel the attacks of bacteria and viruses.

4. Personal hygiene must be on top. That is, the motto "wash your hands more often with soap" is more relevant than ever!

5. The room in which you are located must be ventilated and carry out mandatory wet cleaning, because microbes feel incredibly comfortable in dry, dusty air.

6. During an epidemic of influenza and acute respiratory infections, walk through crowded shopping malls, cinemas, cafes and other places where a lot of people gather is not recommended. But walks (especially skiing) in the fresh air in a country park or forest perfectly strengthen the body.

Conclusion

After reviewing the information about what drugs to take for a cold, you can meet an acute respiratory disease or flu fully armed. But it is better, of course, never to catch a cold and not get sick! Take care of yourself, we wish you good heroic health!

Good day to you, dear visitors of Alexey Shevchenko's blog "Healthy Lifestyle". Winter colds are gradually receding, but the topic of colds and their complications, on the contrary, is gaining momentum. Antiviral and antipyretic drugs are still the most popular in pharmacy chains. But is there a really high-quality medicine against colds today? We will deal with this issue today.

And it should be dealt with immediately. Perhaps there is none public place in a city where you will not be able to meet a sneezing or coughing person. This includes the metro, buses, schools, kindergartens and many other places. This means that every second we are under the threat of infection with any viruses. However, is it worth sounding the alarm, being afraid of getting sick at any moment, not leaving the house, wearing medical masks and drinking a mountain of medicines? And is it possible a priori to prevent the development of the disease?

It is important to know that the sooner colds and flus are treated, the less severe the symptoms and the lower the risk of complications.

Viruses surround us from birth. The worst thing is that the nature of viruses has not been studied even by 10%. And even the most venerable virologists in the world cannot predict how they will behave at one time or another. Influenza and colds, that is, SARS or acute respiratory infections, are quite related diseases. But they also have their differences.


Colds are one of the most acute problems medicine in the spring, winter and autumn seasons. It is important to understand: it is better to prevent the development of the disease than to treat subsequent complications. Prevention of influenza today, first of all, routine vaccination of the population. Unfortunately, sometimes vaccinated people become infected with SARS and influenza viruses. Since it is not always possible to predict which strain of viruses will be more active in a given period.

And one more serious factor which should not be ignored is the increasing number of post-vaccination complications from year to year. But come on, whether to get vaccinated or not is an individual matter. To know the causes of influenza and SARS, and most importantly, to be able to distinguish them from a common cold, it is desirable for every person who cares about the health of his body.

Influenza is an acute, infectious disease caused by the penetration of influenza viruses into the body. Most often, we get sick with type A and B viruses. These are the most common strains, but in total there are so many influenza viruses that it is difficult to imagine. And at any moment, each virus can mutate and become a deadly weapon for all of humanity. As it was at the beginning of the twentieth century with the influenza virus called "Spanish flu". Now remember the main symptoms of the flu:

  • Unbearable headache that occurs against the background of complete health,
  • Pain in the eyeballs, in some cases, tearing,
  • Pain in the bones, the so-called "ache",
  • Sharp hoarseness of voice
  • The temperature at the very beginning of the disease, as a rule, does not exceed subfebrile figures (37.0 - 37.5).

These are the symptoms of the first second day of the disease. Then they are joined by respiratory symptoms:

  • Runny nose,
  • Cough,
  • sneezing,
  • Sore throat.

Subsequently, a bacterial infection joins, causing an increase in temperature, to very high numbers.

Colds or acute respiratory infections can be both viral and bacterial in nature. In the case of chronic diseases, especially the upper respiratory tract, a decrease in immunity is relevant. This causes frequent colds. A person with chronic tonsillitis does not have to be exposed to the flu virus to get sick. It is enough for him to wet his feet, and there are symptoms of acute respiratory infections:

  • Runny nose,
  • Sore throat,
  • Cough, sore throat,
  • Headache is aching, unpleasant, but it can be tolerated,
  • The temperature in acute respiratory infections, as a rule, is very high from the first minutes, and in some cases it becomes the first symptom of a cold.


Despite some differences in the onset of diseases, first aid for colds and flu is practically the same, since acute respiratory infections can also be of viral etiology (causes). The main goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent serious complications.


Important to know: if you have a cold or flu symptoms, you should never use antibiotics! do not kill any of the known viruses. The only effect they will have in the fight against a viral infection is immune suppression.

When purchasing drugs aimed at eliminating the symptoms of acute respiratory viral diseases, one should assess the severity and understand what caused them. If the nature of the infection is viruses, the main focus of treatment should be on antiviral drugs. But you should not grab everything from the shelves of pharmacies. Give preference to those drugs that really have proven themselves. In general, the mechanism of action of drugs for flu and colds is similar.


Antivirals that have proven effective

Antiviral drugs are the basis for the treatment of any viral disease. The sooner a drug that blocks the activity of viruses is taken, the faster the recovery will go. The most effective of them today:

  • Arbidol,
  • Kagocel,
  • Ingavirin,
  • Ergoferon,
  • Remantadin.


The action of all these drugs is the same - blocking and destroying viruses that have entered the body. The sooner you start taking these medicines, the less severe your respiratory symptoms will be and the lower your risk of complications. In addition, these drugs not only kill viruses, but also help the body to activate the synthesis of interferons, which means that they are also immunostimulating substances.

Ascorbic acid, which is part of antiviral drugs, tones the walls of blood vessels in the body, and in fact they become the first victim of viruses. The main contraindications for treatment by this group medicines is the age of children three years, allergic reactions to one of the components of the drug and severe violations of the liver and kidneys. However, there are exceptions among them. For example: antiviral drugs AFLUBIN and ANAFERON, which have proven themselves in pediatric practice.



Preventive means of ARVI and flu - vaccines. - one of the most effective methods of treatment of SARS. But, however, this is not one hundred percent protection from the disease. In autumn, the vaccination procedure can be obtained free of charge at any clinic. The most famous flu vaccine is influvac. It is successfully used even in small children.

Interferon preparations that stimulate the body's own immunity are considered another leading link in the treatment of viral infections.


The most famous of them:

  • Anaferon,
  • Neovir,
  • Inferon,
  • Cycloferon.

They have antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Stimulate local immunity. Issued in various forms. For small children in the form of syrup and nasal drops.

Is it possible to defeat the flu using symptomatic drugs?


Symptomatic drugs are usually complex drugs. These include:

  • Paracetamol
  • coldrex,
  • Rinza,
  • Theraflu,
  • Aspirin
  • Ibuprofen.


The active complexes of these drugs have antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. The main component of these drugs is the usual paracetamol. And you should think before taking an expensive drug that can be replaced with a cheap analogue. Especially if you are taking a complex antiviral agent in parallel.

Some types of rhinoviruses are capable of causing a prolonged runny nose with a common cold. For the first few days, complex preparations based on paracetamol help to fight. But in some cases, they become useless, then the use of vasoconstrictors is recommended. What is relevant now is not drops that flow down the throat, but sprays that penetrate the vascular wall of the nose as quickly as possible. The most famous of them:

  • Otrivin,
  • Vibrocil,
  • Xymelin,
  • IRS - 19.



Another of the unpleasant viruses that cause cold symptoms is adenoviruses. It is they that affect the mucous membrane of the eye, causing uncontrolled conjunctivitis. The most formidable complication of these viruses is myocarditis.


We treat cough and runny nose correctly

One of the main symptoms of a cold is a cough. In the beginning it is dry and tearing. This symptom brings a huge amount of unpleasant moments. It occurs due to irritation of the nasopharyngeal mucosa. At the first moment, it is important to relieve inflammation and qualitatively anesthetize the throat mucosa.

The first remedy is to rinse the oropharynx with saline and then use medication. One of the best for this is the drug - Tanflex. It is produced in the form of a spray, relieves swelling and qualitatively anesthetizes the oropharyngeal mucosa, prevents inflammation from developing and involving the bronchi and lungs in the inflammatory process. In complex therapy with Tanflex, sputum thinners can be used. One of the best thinners is Codelac.



It is important to know: for a better liquefaction of sputum, it is necessary to consume a large amount of liquid, sometimes it is this factor that can eliminate the cough better than any medicine.

Is it worth it to use traditional medicine in the fight against SARS?

Folk remedies for flu and colds are always relevant in the fight against symptoms of acute respiratory infections and flu. Prevention and treatment folk remedies one of better ways save quite a decent amount of your income. Plus, you will strengthen your immunity and increase your efficiency. The main thing is to follow these simple rules:

  • Maintain adequate physical activity
  • Walk outdoors more
  • Eat in moderation and right
  • Ventilate your home several times a day,
  • Adjust your daily routine.


Plentiful warm drink, one of the recognized folk methods in the fight against colds. Perfect for this purpose:

  • Infusion with rose hips,
  • Tea with raspberry and lemon
  • Various berry fruit drinks, especially cranberry and blackcurrant,
  • Decoctions of medicinal herbs.

Rinsing the nose with saline gently eliminates discharge, dries the mucous membrane and prevents infection from developing.

Steam inhalation is a great way to moisturize the mucosa. Our grandmothers advise to breathe in the steam of freshly boiled potatoes.

The use of citrus fruits will saturate the body with vitamin C, an indispensable assistant in the fight against viruses.

How to treat a cold is the business of every person, someone will give preference to preventive measures, someone traditional medicine, and someone will go to see a doctor with experience. The most important thing is not to harm yourself and get back on your feet faster. When choosing remedies for the treatment of influenza, do not forget to evaluate the pros and cons. And I hope your choice will be the right one.

I say goodbye to you, dear readers, I hope the article answered all your questions. Please actively comment and subscribe to our updates. See you soon.


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